TravTalk India Online Magazine
With TAAI completing 75 years in 2026, the association officially kicked off its year-long celebrations recently in New Delhi with the unveiling of a commemorative logo. The event, attended by prominent figures like Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, highlighted TAAI’s legacy.
Surbhi Sharma
As the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) reaches its milestone of 75 years in 2026, the association kick-started its year-long celebrations, titled “The 75 Years of TAAI”, by launching its official logo at an event in New Delhi on 25 January.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Government of India and Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India, along with prominent personalities of travel, trade, aviation and hospitality attended the event. Shekhawat launched the TAAI’s new logo.
Addressing the event, Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI, said, “We are building up a runway for 2026. We would like to do something purposeful & meaningful and hence this runway to 75th year is very important for our newly elected committee. We would like these two years to be productive and decided to expand our committees. The theme way forward is to connect, collaborate, and celebrate.”
He said, “TAAI is not just an association of ticketing agents, but an association where we have the largest number of tour operators in this country. We intend to focus on the association’s role in fostering collaboration between us and the industry, enhancing our relevance to our membership, and becoming the representative voice, not only for our members but also for passengers and the broader industry.”
Shekhawat congratulated TAAI for its achievements and highlighted the tourism scenario in the country. “Tourism in India is growing at a rapid pace, and with the ongoing Maha Kumbh, we anticipate 45 crore visitors during the 45-day fair. To support this surge, we must upgrade ourselves and our infrastructure, ensuring that we cater to both domestic and international tourists,” he said.
Addressing the gathering, Kant said, “Tourism holds a unique place in India’s economy, creating 11 indirect jobs for every direct job. For inclusive growth, no sector matches the potential of tourism. To build a $30 trillion economy by 2047, India’s tourism must grow 22 times, and that requires skill development and creating unique, state-specific experiences. India’s tourism future hinges on partnerships with the private sector, digital marketing campaigns, and skilling our workforce, ensuring we drive not just jobs but unforgettable experiences.”
Kant said, “The MICE market is a $150 billion global opportunity, and with world-class venues like Yashobhumi and Bharat Mandapam, India is now poised to tap into it. Stakeholders must seize this chance to grow.” He added that tourism should be treated as an industry, offering long-term funding, and industry electricity rates.”
